Which social reformer of Kerala authored a book titled "Pracheena Malayalam"?

Appeared in: KPSC Staff Nurse - 2018

Explanation

Chattambi Swamikal is the author of the book 'Pracheena Malayalam'.
This book is a scholarly work that explores the ancient history, language, and social structure of Kerala.
Swamikal's writings, including this one, were aimed at challenging the prevailing caste-based social hierarchies and promoting a more egalitarian society.

Option A: Narayana Guru was a pivotal social reformer, but his most famous philosophical work is 'Atmopadesa Śatakam' (One Hundred Verses of Self-Instruction).
Option B: Sahodaran Ayyappan was a journalist, rationalist, and a disciple of Narayana Guru, known for organizing 'Mishra Bhojanam' (inter-caste feasts) to fight against untouchability.
Option C: Kumara Guru, or Kumaraguruparar, was a 17th-century Tamil poet and saint. He is not associated with the 19th and 20th-century social reform movement in Kerala.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Knowledge of social reformers in Kerala and their literary works as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This question tests general knowledge, which is often a component of nursing entrance examinations in India.
Understanding the socio-cultural history of a region provides valuable context for community health nursing, helping to appreciate local customs, beliefs, and historical sensitivities.
What if the question asked for the author of 'Jati Nirnayam' (Critique of Caste)? The answer would be Narayana Guru, who wrote this work to argue against the caste system.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question based on Indian history and general knowledge.
First, identify the key elements in the question: the book title ('Pracheena Malayalam') and the context (social reformer of Kerala).
Scan the options, which are all names of prominent figures from or related to Kerala's history.
Systematically recall or deduce the major works and contributions associated with each figure.
Match the book 'Pracheena Malayalam' with its correct author, Chattambi Swamikal, to arrive at the right answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Knowledge of social reformers in Kerala and their literary works.
Stem keywords: social reformer, Kerala, authored, Pracheena Malayalam
Lead-in keywords: Which
Negative lead-in flag: false

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Practise the full KPSC Staff Nurse - 2018

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.